Introduction to Who Wrote Shakespeare from Coursera

This free course from the University of London explores critical thinking, and the interpretation of texts, through the Shakespeare authorship question. Using doubt about Shakespeare’s authorship as our playground, we will explore the key concept of authorship attribution, while developing skills in literary analysis, interpretation, and argument. Through forensic exploration of key texts, you will learn why Shakespeare’s authorship is questioned, and what evidence is cited on both sides of the debate.

For those of you interested in exploring the works of Shakespeare from a new angle, or just wanting to hone your analytical thinking skills, this course offers an introduction to a fascinating area of interest. Those of you already interested in the Shakespeare authorship question will be encouraged to question your own assumptions in fruitful ways. Whether undertaken as a standalone course, or as preparation for the University of London BA in English, this course will be food for thought.

What's inside

Syllabus

Understanding the Question

This week is a practical introduction to the Shakespeare authorship question, covering terms and concepts you will use and outlining the basic arguments for and against William Shakespeare’s authorship of the works attributed to him. You will learn a framework for understanding how a person’s perceptions (including your own) are shaped by pre-existing beliefs and assumptions and learn how this might impact your ability to interpret and assess literary and historical evidence. You will then be introduced to a key theory of the authorship question and to the first practical exercise in close-reading a relevant text.

The Man and the Author

In this module we’ll look at questions of identity; chiefly at arguments that attempt to link William Shakspere the man to William Shakespeare the author – or to sever that link. The arguments surrounding “Hand D” in Sir Thomas More claim to establish a firm link between Shakspere and Shakespeare, and Shakespeare’s authorship of the “Hand D” pages is now being presented as fact, so it’s important to understand the evidence, arguments, and reasons for this attribution. You’ll look in detail at the non-Stratfordian argument that Shakespeare authorship doubt was first expressed within only four years after the first “Shakespeare” publication in the works of John Marston and Joseph Hall. You’ll consider some of the key Stratfordian and non-Stratfordian arguments related to William Shakspere’s coat of arms. And lastly, you’ll look critically at an important cornerstone of Shakespeare biography, Robert Greene’s reference to a plagiarising actor, the “upstart Crow”.

The Evidence from Stratford-upon-Avon

In the module, you will look more deeply at the connection between Stratford-upon-Avon and Shakespeare, beginning with Shakespeare-related testimony from people who had a provable personal connection to Stratford-upon-Avon and Shakespeare: William Camden, Michael Drayton, Shakespeare's son-in-law, Dr John Hall, and Shakespeare’s daughters. You’ll consider the question of his daughters’ literacy, and whether has any bearing on the authorship question. You’ll look at what are claimed to be local Warwickshire references in the plays, which have been used to support the traditional authorship attribution. And finally, you’ll consider the monument erected to Shakespeare in Stratford’s Holy Trinity Church, arguments that it was altered in the 18th century, and the three texts engraved on that monument and the connected grave.

The First Folio as Proof of Authorship

In this final module you’ll explore the key text supporting the traditional attribution of Shakespeare’s works: the 1623 First Folio of Shakespeare’s works. You will learn why the First Folio is a critically important text for those interested in the Shakespeare authorship question, and you will study in detail – applying the textual analysis skills you have developed so far - the texts included in its preface..

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Examines the Shakespeare authorship question, which is a unique area of inquiry

Taught by Ros Barber, who is recognized for their work in the field of Shakespeare authorship

Develops literary analysis, interpretation, and argument skills, which are highly sought after for academics and professionals alike

Suitable for learners with a strong interest in Shakespeare or critical thinking

Offered through the University of London, which is recognized for its academic and research excellence

Available for free, removing cost as a barrier to entry

Reviews summary

Shakespeare unmasked: uncovering the bard's secrets

Learners say that this informative and engaging course delves into the fascinating question of Shakespeare's authorship. Led by Dr. Ros Barber, this course provides a balanced and unbiased exploration of the evidence and theories surrounding the Bard's true identity. Through interviews with renowned scholars and experts, learners will encounter diverse perspectives on this captivating topic, gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities and controversies that have surrounded Shakespeare's authorship for centuries.

The course encourages critical thinking and in-depth analysis of the evidence surrounding Shakespeare's authorship.

"Intense course. Not for the mildly curious. Roz Barber's knowledge of the subject matter is truly encyclopedic."

"The quizzes at the end of each chapter are tough (maybe a little too tough) , so pay attention and think."

"Close reading and critical thinking can be fun, enlightening and both intellectually and spiritually enhancing, as can uncertainty but I nearly drowned in the deluge of negativity only being rescued by the optimism of Mark Rylance."

Learners will encounter interviews with prominent scholars and experts, providing a range of perspectives on the authorship question.

"The interviews with prominent scholars were interesting and entertaining."

"This course was fun! Yes, the topic is esoteric, but it is very well presented and maintains a fair and balanced manner of inquiry."

"I really enjoyed the course, especially the interviews with people who are non stratfordians but very different in their approach towards the subject."

Dr. Barber's approach is unbiased and objective, allowing learners to form their own conclusions based on the evidence presented.

"Ros Barber's unbiased, laser-focused introduction to authorship question was enlightening and so very enjoyable."

"I had some previous knowledge of the authorship question, and I feel that the course assumed very little to no previous knowledge."

"As a long-time sceptic, I was delighted to find this course. I found Dr Barber very engaging, unlike many academics who do these online courses, and the interviews were also really engaging."

This course offers a comprehensive examination of the arguments both for and against Shakespeare's authorship, respecting all viewpoints.

"A great course for anyone who wants to know more about Shakespeare's work and for anyone who is aiming to better their critical thinking."

"This is an excellent course and I'm really glad I took it. The first lesson with the discussion about the importance of keeping an open mind is very worthwhile in itself."

"I feel as though this course makes it permissible to question the Holy of Holies, William Shakespeare, and that authorship questioners are not actually just a fringe group."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Introduction to Who Wrote Shakespeare with these activities:

Review basic literary devices

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Brush up on your knowledge of literary devices to strengthen your ability to analyze texts.

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Read an article or blog post about common literary devices.
Create a list of the devices, their definitions, and examples.
Practice identifying literary devices in short texts.

Review English history and literature

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Build a stronger foundation for understanding Shakespeare's works by refreshing your knowledge of English history and literature.

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Read summaries or watch documentaries about key historical events in Shakespeare's time.
Review literary works from the Elizabethan era, including plays, poetry, and prose.
Consider the social, cultural, and political context of Shakespeare's works.

Analyze Shakespearean sonnets

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Practice close reading and analysis of complex texts by analyzing Shakespearean sonnets.

Browse courses on Shakespeare

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Read a Shakespearean sonnet closely, paying attention to its structure, language, and themes.
Identify literary devices used in the sonnet.
Write a short analysis of the sonnet, interpreting its meaning and significance.

Five other activities

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Explore digital resources on Shakespeare's authorship

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Enhance your understanding of the authorship question by exploring reputable digital resources and engaging with online discussions.

Browse courses on Shakespeare

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Visit websites and online forums dedicated to the Shakespeare authorship question.
Watch videos and documentaries about the authorship debate.
Participate in online discussions and share your insights.

Read 'Shakespeare: The Missing Years' by Charles Nicholl

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Delve into the life and career of Shakespeare by reading this comprehensive biography, gaining insights into the man and his work.

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Run a mock trial on authorship.

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Develop your critical thinking and argumentation skills by participating in a mock trial on the authorship of Shakespeare's works.

Browse courses on Authorship

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Gather a group of peers and assign roles.
Research evidence and arguments for and against the authorship question.
Present findings and engage in a debate.
Analyze the trial and identify strengths and areas for improvement.

Write a blog post or article on the Shakespeare authorship question

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Solidify your understanding of the authorship question by summarizing and presenting it in a clear and engaging manner.

Browse courses on Shakespeare

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Research the authorship question and gather evidence.
Organize and synthesize your findings into a coherent narrative.
Write a well-structured blog post or article, presenting your arguments and supporting evidence.
Share and promote your work online.

Enter a Shakespeare essay writing competition

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Test your knowledge and analysis skills by participating in a Shakespeare essay writing competition, receiving feedback from experts.

Browse courses on Shakespeare

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Research and select a topic related to Shakespeare's authorship or works.
Develop a well-argued and supported essay.
Submit your essay to the competition.
Receive feedback on your essay and learn from experts.

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Who Wrote Shakespeare will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

English Professor

English Professors teach courses in English literature, language, and writing. This course can be helpful to an English Professor, as its focus on critical thinking, interpretation of texts, and literary analysis can help an English Professor to better understand and analyze English literature.

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Professor

Professors teach courses at colleges and universities. This course can be helpful to a Professor, as its focus on critical thinking, interpretation of texts, and literary analysis can help a Professor to better understand and analyze course materials.

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Librarian

Librarians assist patrons in finding and using library resources. This course can be helpful to a Librarian, as its focus on critical thinking, interpretation of texts, and literary analysis can help a Librarian to better understand and analyze library resources.

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Historian

Historians research, analyze, and interpret historical events. This course can be helpful to a Historian, as its focus on critical thinking, interpretation of texts, and forensic exploration of key texts can help a Historian to better understand and analyze historical events.

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Journalist

Journalists write and edit news stories for newspapers, magazines, and websites. This course can be helpful to a Journalist, as its focus on critical thinking, interpretation of texts, and literary analysis can help a Journalist to better understand and analyze news events.

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Literary Agent

Literary Agents represent authors and negotiate contracts for their work. This course can be helpful to a Literary Agent, as its focus on critical thinking, interpretation of texts, and literary analysis can help a Literary Agent to better understand and analyze literary works.

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Editor

Editors oversee the creation and production of written content. This course can be helpful to an Editor, as its focus on critical thinking, interpretation of texts, and literary analysis can help an Editor to better understand and analyze written content.

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Museum curator

Museum Curators oversee the collections of museums and galleries. This course can be helpful to a Museum Curator, as its focus on critical thinking, interpretation of texts, and forensic exploration of key texts can help a Museum Curator to better understand and analyze museum collections.

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Archivist

Archivists organize, preserve, and provide access to historical documents. This course can be helpful to an Archivist, as its focus on critical thinking, interpretation of texts, and forensic exploration of key texts can help an Archivist to better understand and analyze historical documents.

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Lawyer

Lawyers represent clients in legal matters. This course may be useful to a Lawyer, as its focus on critical thinking and interpretation of texts can help a Lawyer to better understand and analyze legal documents.

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Public relations manager

Public Relations Managers plan and implement public relations campaigns. This course may be useful to a Public Relations Manager, as its focus on critical thinking and interpretation of texts can help a Public Relations Manager to better understand and analyze public relations campaigns.

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Market Researcher

Market Researchers conduct research to understand market trends and consumer behavior. This course may be useful to a Market Researcher, as its focus on critical thinking and interpretation of texts can help a Market Researcher to better understand and analyze market research data.

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Grant Writer

Grant Writers write proposals to secure funding for organizations. This course may be useful to a Grant Writer, as its focus on critical thinking and interpretation of texts can help a Grant Writer to better understand and analyze funding opportunities.

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College or University Administrator

College or University Administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operations of a college or university. This course may be useful to a College or University Administrator, as its focus on critical thinking and interpretation of texts can help an Administrator to better understand and analyze policies and procedures.

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Information Scientist

Information Scientists design and implement systems for managing and retrieving information. This course may be useful to an Information Scientist, as its focus on critical thinking and interpretation of texts can help an Information Scientist to better understand and analyze information systems.

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